£64m powerhouse could now miss upcoming clash against Liverpool in huge injury blow
One of Liverpool’s upcoming opponents has suffered a significant injury setback ahead of their match against the Reds.
Arne Slot’s team kicks off a hectic December with a home game against Manchester City today, followed by a trip to St James’ Park to face Newcastle on Wednesday.
The Premier League leaders will be without several players for their trip to Tyneside, and Eddie Howe may also face a major concern with his squad.
Newcastle faces injury worry ahead of Liverpool clash
In the first half of Newcastle’s 1-1 draw with Crystal Palace on Saturday, Alexander Isak was forced off with what appeared to be a groin injury.
According to the Shields Gazette, Howe mentioned after the game that it was a ‘contact issue’ and is optimistic that the £64m striker will ‘recover quickly’, though the Magpies are awaiting a more detailed diagnosis for the Sweden international.
Newcastle also had concerns about Joelinton and Dan Burn during their match at Selhurst Park, but both players completed the full game and are expected to be fit for the Liverpool match.
Isak’s potential injury absence could present a dilemma for Howe
It remains uncertain whether Isak will be available for the match against Liverpool, but given the short turnaround and the nature of the injury, it’s quite possible that Newcastle could be without the 25-year-old on Wednesday.
This would be a significant blow for Newcastle if they lose their top scorer for such a crucial game against the Premier League leaders. Isak, alongside Harvey Barnes, is one of only two players in Howe’s squad to have scored more than twice this season.
If Isak is ruled out, the Magpies would have to choose between relying on a centre-forward with limited playing time this season (Callum Wilson and William Osula have only played 164 minutes combined) or shifting someone out of position, possibly using Anthony Gordon or Joelinton at the forefront of the attack.
Newcastle will anxiously await news on Isak’s condition in the coming days. While Liverpool’s task might seem slightly easier if he misses out, it’s always unfortunate to see players injured, and we wish the Swedish striker a speedy recovery from the knock he sustained against Palace.
